We are excited to announce the latest publication from our talented Research Associate and Head of the Bioinformatics Unit, Dr. Anna Onisiforou, in collaboration with Dr. Polymnia Georgiou. Their groundbreaking paper, titled “Molecular signatures of premature aging in Major Depression and Substance Use Disorders,” has been published in Scientific Data (Nature Group).
Major depressive disorder (MDD) and substance-use disorders (SUDs) are known to lead to premature aging, increasing vulnerability to cognitive decline and various forms of dementia. Utilizing advanced systems bioinformatics, this study has identified specific aging “signatures” in MDD and SUDs and evaluated the potential of known lifespan-extending drugs to target and reverse these signatures. The study identified transcriptional activation of FOS gene family members as a potential target for mitigating premature aging in individuals with MDD and SUDs.
The research also highlighted that antidepressant drugs that activate the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, common in rapid-acting antidepressants, may accelerate aging in MDD patients. This suggests they may not be suitable for those with aging-related conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. In contrast, several potential anti-aging interventions for MDD patients were identified, such as Deferoxamine, Resveratrol, Estradiol valerate, and natural compounds like zinc acetate, genistein, and ascorbic acid, which may be effective regardless of comorbid anxiety disorders.
These findings provide crucial insights into the premature aging effects of MDD and SUDs and offer promising treatment strategies for patients with comorbid aging-related conditions. The research underscores the importance of personalized medicine approaches in treating MDD and SUDs, particularly in patients at risk for cognitive decline and dementia. We congratulate Dr. Onisiforou and her collaborators for their significant contribution to understanding the intersection of mental health disorders and aging. This innovative work not only advances scientific knowledge but also opens new avenues for therapeutic interventions aimed at improving the quality of life for patients suffering from these complex conditions.
To read the full paper, please visit: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41597-024-03538-z.
Stay tuned for more updates and insights from the Zanos Laboratory as we continue to push the boundaries of bioinformatics and neuroscience research.